State Does Not Have Power to Abrogate SoO: Manipur CM in State Assembly

The tripartite SoO agreement signed between Centre, State and KNO and UPF was signed in 2008 and expired in February this year

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh today made it clear that the state government does not have the power to abrogate the Suspension of Operation or SoO deal as it is Tripartite agreement between the Centre, the state and the concerned insurgent groupings.

There was a lot of confusion as the SoO was not renewed after it had expired in February this year. There was confusion regarding the status of the Kuki militants who were under the SoO deal. SoO was signed in 2008 with the Kuki National Organition (KNO) and the United Peoples Front (UPF).

Chief Minister Biren Singh’s statement in the floor of the Assembly today is significant as it gives clarity about the SoO deal. But now the question arises whether the Centre will extend the SoO deal or give some clarity on the matter.

As per the agreement, the cadres of KNO and UPF were to be confined to designated camps and their arms were kept locked in safe rooms under a double-locking system.

Manipur has been witnessing ethnic clashes since May last year. The violence has so far claimed close to 300 lives and displaced over 60,000 people.

Also Read: Manipur Journalists’ Pen-Down Strike Tomorrow, To Suspend All Print and Electronic Activities

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